We all clearly recall how the world was brought to its knees during the unprecedented pandemic of Covid-19. All our investments in the gigantic infrastructure and developmental projects stood still as we couldn't use them at all. In this atmosphere of gloom and doom what really kept our hopes alive was the vaccine research conducted by scientists around the world. It was this tireless research, with the invention of the vaccines, pulled us out of the pandemic. And there we realized the importance of investing medical and pharmaceutical research. Importantly, India, rightly hailed as the pharmacy of the world for its world-leading pharmaceutical sector, played a crucial role in safeguarding humanity during these challenging times.
Though the pandemic brought pharmaceutical science into sharp focus in our lives, it has been a constant blessing to humanity from a long time. Just read through the pages of history and you will discover how entire villages were decimated by epidemics like chickenpox or individuals suffering excruciatingly painful deaths from seemingly minor infections, all of which were eventually conquered by the advancements in medical science. Thus, human progress in all areas of life owes a lot to the developments in pharmaceutical and medical sciences for they provided the foundation of healthy mind and body, enabling humanity to survive and thrive.
MGM University has always been committed to the propagation of science and research and has established the University Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences (UDPS) with the same vision. Approved by the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI), the state-of-the-art department offers cutting-edge education and research opportunities in the field. The modern and research-based teaching-learning methodologies of the University empower the student to understand the essence of the science and develop a problem-solving approach that truly helps her to build a thriving career in the field. The advanced research facilities, well-equipped laboratories and other extensive educational infrastructure of the University supported by accomplished faculty transform students into a competent pharmaceutical professional.
The Covid-19 outbreak gave us a hint of the ever-growing need of professionals and researchers in the pharmaceutical sector. Humanity faces an array of daunting challenges today, including climate change, the emergence of novel zoonotic diseases, lifestyle-related health issues, and numerous other ailments brought about by changing times. These challenges require us to focus more and more on the research and development in pharma sector. Convergence of advanced technologies with the science has also opened up scores of new opportunities for the students. It is imperative that we prepare ourselves to seize these opportunities and not only secure a bright future for ourselves but also contribute to the welfare of society and nation-building.
I am sure that the students of MGM University's Department of Pharmaceutical Science, nurtured by a value-based, research-oriented and experiential education system, will be the torchbearers of tomorrow to lead us all towards a healthier and more sustainable future.